Japan Surgeonfish

The Japan Surgeonfish is an attractive and moderately sized tang species that is frequently compared to its close relative, the Powder Brown Tang (Acanthurus nigricans). It features a brown to olive-brown body with a distinctive white band running from the chin along the throat, a bright orange patch near the caudal peduncle, and subtle blue edging along the dorsal and anal fins. The combination of these markings creates a refined, elegant appearance that is appealing without being ostentatious.

In the wild, the Japan Surgeonfish is found across the Western Pacific, from southern Japan through the Philippines and Indonesia to Taiwan. It inhabits coral-rich reef slopes and lagoons, typically at moderate depths, where it grazes on filamentous algae growing on rock surfaces. The species is often confused with the Powder Brown Tang in the aquarium trade, and while the two are closely related and similar in care requirements, the Japan Surgeonfish can be distinguished by its more prominent white facial marking and slightly different dorsal fin coloration.

The Japan Surgeonfish is a good choice for intermediate aquarists seeking a moderately sized, attractive tang for a reef system of 100 gallons or more. It adapts reasonably well to captive conditions and accepts a variety of herbivorous foods. Like most tangs, it can be semi-aggressive toward similar species but is generally well-behaved with dissimilar tankmates. It is completely reef-safe and will not harm corals or invertebrates. Proper quarantine is recommended, as this species is susceptible to ich and other parasitic diseases common to tangs.